The Last Dragon (novel)
The Last Dragon is a fantasy novel by Jane Yolen, published in 1982. It is part of Yolen's Pit Dragon Chronicles series. While frequently associated with young adult literature, it can appeal to a broader audience.
Synopsis: The story follows Jakkin Stewart, a bond servant on the iron planet of Austar IV, where humans mine for iron ore. Austar is also home to dragons, specifically fighting dragons raised in hatcheries and used in arena combat. Jakkin steals a dragon egg, hatches it in secret, and trains the dragon, named Heart's Blood, to become a champion fighter. The novel explores themes of freedom, responsibility, and the bond between humans and dragons. Jakkin's actions challenge the established social hierarchy and raise questions about the ethics of dragon fighting.
Significance within the Pit Dragon Chronicles: The Last Dragon is the first book in the series and establishes the world of Austar and the unique relationship between humans and dragons in this setting. It introduces the key characters and themes that are further developed in subsequent books, including Dragon's Blood, Heart's Blood, and A Sending of Dragons.
Themes:
- Freedom vs. Servitude: Jakkin's desire to escape his bond servitude and Heart's Blood's innate wildness highlight the struggle for freedom against oppressive forces.
- Responsibility and Consequences: Jakkin's actions, driven by his ambition and love for Heart's Blood, have significant consequences for himself and others, forcing him to confront the ethical implications of his choices.
- The Human-Animal Bond: The deep connection between Jakkin and Heart's Blood underscores the powerful bond that can exist between humans and animals, even in unconventional circumstances.
- Social Hierarchy and Inequality: The rigid social structure of Austar and the treatment of bond servants raise questions about justice and equality.